Vegetative Phenology observations at the Andrews Experimental Forest, 2009 - Present

The vegetation phenology study is part of a larger effort to understand the influence of climate variability and change on trophic interactions in mountainous terrain. Phenology Core Sites were selected to capture the variation in elevation and topography across Lookout Creek watershed. Priority was given to sites with long-term air and soil temperature records (Reference stands) and previous phenology observations (Reference stands and stream gauging stations). Sixteen sites were established. At each site five individuals of from each 18 common species (if occurring within the site) from tree, shrub and herb layers were mapped and marked for observation. Weekly observations are conducted each year beginning in March or April depending on winter conditions and snowpack and continuing through June or July. Plant vegetative and reproductive phenophases are scored using a numbered system adapted to each plant species.